The Penguins play one more game tonight before getting a much-deserved rest for the All-Star break. They’ve played seven games in the last 11 days and tonight’s game against Washington will make it eight in 13 days. As part of NHL policy, the Penguins’ players will get five days off from team activities after tonight’s game. The Pens have lost three in a row, all one-goal games; one by shootout, one in overtime, and most recently a 4-3 loss to the L.A. Kings in regulation on Sunday.
Coach Mike Sullivan says the team is using both video and practice time to work on their problem areas.
Sullivan gave the team the option to skate yesterday or today. Eighteen players laced up the skates yesterday. The coach says he has a weary hockey team heading into this weekend’s All-Star game.
Defenseman Kris Letang says the Penguins are tired, but their situation is no different than any other team’s.
With his goal Sunday against the Kings, Sidney Crosby is just two shy of 500 for his career. The only other active player with 500 goals will be on the ice tonight. The Capitals’ Alexander Ovechkin has 759, and is threatening Wayne Gretzky’s all-time record of 894. Letang says Crosby has an ability to see the game differently than other players.
Sullivan had no updates on any injured players yesterday. Forward Drew O’Connor, who is on long-term injured reserve with a reported collapsed lung, skated yesterday before practice.
Tonight’s Penguins/Capitals game will be on 92.5 FM U92 and the U92 Sportschannel, with the pregame airing at 6 o’clock. The next scheduled game is next Tuesday at Boston.
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